A deconsecrated Surry Hills church will soon become a vibrant $5.2-million restaurant and commercial precinct following the approval of the development plans.
The project, located at 422-424 Cleveland St and also known as The Kirk, will feature a 200-patron dining hall within the church’s existing structure. An additional six-storey building is set to be constructed behind the church, providing a kitchen for the restaurant and four levels of office space.
This development, DA/2023/997, aims to revitalise the intersection of Crown, Baptist, and Cleveland streets, enhancing the area known as Surry Hills Village.
TOGA’s initiative is designed to attract a diverse crowd, including local residents, workers, and visitors, by offering boutique hospitality and workspace options. The Kirk will operate its dining hall from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, extending its hours until midnight on weekends.
Historical Significance and Architectural Plans
The Victorian Gothic church, constructed in 1879 and operational as a place of worship until 1970, has a storied past, including when it was known for Sydney’s vibrant nightlife under the ownership of Gretel Pinniger, famously known as Madame Lash. The building has served various community purposes over the years and was last used in 2010.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia
The new plans involve demolishing rear additions to the church and constructing a five-storey infill building that will connect to the church through a new basement level. This development will also feature commercial office spaces and a licensed restaurant that extends across both the new and old buildings, including architectural features like open-pitched portals.
Photo Credit: DA/2023/997
Strategic Development and Future Plans
This redevelopment is part of TOGA’s broader vision for Surry Hills, which includes the Surry Hills Village redevelopment project. This larger project, already underway with a $200-million investment, includes residences, restaurants, boutiques, and workspaces. It aims to transform Surry Hills into a more built-up and diverse commercial, retail, and entertainment hub.
TOGA acquired the church site in November last year for $6 million, viewing it as a prime opportunity for adaptive reuse that respects the area’s heritage and enhances its economic vitality. The overall development is strategically designed to blend The Kirk’s historical essence with modern architectural elements, ensuring a seamless transition between the old and new structures while enriching the local streetscape.
Seventy-seven NSW venues, including those in Surry Hills, will be able to play louder and longer thanks to grants of up to $100,000 for soundproofing and to encourage live music.
The grants, announced on 30 June 2024, will benefit a variety of venues, from inner city clubs to bush pubs. Among the 21 venues receiving up to $100,000 each are Darlinghurst’s Club 77, The Lansdowne Hotel in Chippendale, and Avoca Theatre. Another 56 venues, including Surry Yulli’s Brews and the Hollywood Hotel in Surry Hills, gain substantial funding to help host live performances.
New Noise Complaint Regulations
Alongside the grants, new noise complaint regulations will come into effect on 1 July 2024. These regulations include the “order of occupancy” as a key factor in resolving noise complaints, ensuring new residents cannot limit the operating hours of long-standing venues.
Additionally, the number of people required to make a statutory disturbance complaint will increase from three to five, requiring complainants to attempt to resolve issues with the venue before lodging a formal complaint.
Liquor & Gaming NSW will now handle all noise complaints related to licensed premises, streamlining the process.
Impact on Venues
Club 77’s director, Dane Gorrel, stated that the funding will significantly change their operations, allowing the club to expand its trading hours. Club 77, a 25-year-old venue known for electronic music, faces noise challenges due to its high-density residential location and old building structure. The soundproofing grant will enable them to trade 24/7 without disturbing neighbours.
“The old NSW sport of moving in next to a music venue and complaining until it gets shut down, is now history. That era is coming to an end,” NSW Arts Minister John Graham said in the press release.
“The soundproofing and venue support will mean venues can host more live music, whilst reducing the impact on their neighbours.
“Bit by bit, we are rebuilding Sydney’s night-time economy, venue by venue, neighbourhood by neighbourhood.
“We made a commitment to increase the number of live music venues across NSW and through ongoing reform and the Venues Unlocked grant programs we are enabling venues to expand their offerings, while also supporting new music venues to get their performance programming off the ground.”
“We know through the recent State of the Scene report that there are 795 venues across NSW that offer live music – so this is a great start to supporting venues in a real and tangible way and to help them navigate the challenges of operating in NSW,” Head of Sound NSW, Emily Collins, said.
“It has been fantastic to work alongside Liquor & Gaming NSW and the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner to deliver the Venues Unlocked program for venues across our state.”
NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues noted that the Vibrancy reforms tackle regulatory challenges, and the Live Performance Venue Program equips hospitality operators with the skills and infrastructure needed to re-establish diverse performance spaces.
These measures reflect a commitment to fostering a vibrant live music scene in NSW, providing financial support and regulatory protection to ensure venues can thrive without conflicts with their communities.
Did you know that across its 40 years of existence, the International Grammar School has been located in the most interesting of places: a convent, a former factory of Elizabeth Arden cosmetics, and finally, the premises of a burnt-out wool store?
This year’s production marks a significant milestone for IGS, with rehearsals already underway, bringing together students, staff, parents, guardians, and alumni in a collaborative effort. The Music Department, along with Festival Choirs and Orchestras, has been working tirelessly to prepare for the Whole School Production at the ICC on Wednesday, 26 June. This grand event promises to captivate audiences with the extraordinary talent and passion that have been the hallmark of IGS’s productions for four decades.
The journey to this celebration began at Aston Lodge, Randwick, in 1984. The school, initially housed in a convent, quickly outgrew its space and moved to 508-528 Riley Street, Surry Hills, in 1985. The former Elizabeth Arden cosmetics factory served as the school’s second home. Despite financial challenges that led to a brief foreclosure in 1986, IGS acquired the property in 1987, marking a turning point in its history.
By the early 1990s, expanding enrolments necessitated additional space, leading to the temporary use of 5 Thames Street, Balmain for Years 11 and 12. However, it was in 1997 that IGS found its main campus at 4-8 Kelly Street, Ultimo. The transformation of a burnt-out wool store into a vibrant educational facility marked the beginning of a new era. The campus has since grown, incorporating the Wright Building, Kerrie Murphy Building, Colleagues’ Lounge, Bibliothèque, Centre for the Dramatic Arts, and an upcoming Kindergarten Centre slated for 2025.
The history of IGS is not only about its physical expansion but also about its unwavering commitment to the arts. The annual school productions are a highlight, showcasing the collective talent and hard work of the IGS community. This year’s Vive La Revolution is set to be a spectacular event, bringing to life months of dedication from students and staff. The rehearsals, held over the past few Sundays, have been a hive of activity, with the Music Department refining a diverse repertoire to enchant the audience.
As the school counts down to this extraordinary evening, it extends a warm invitation to the entire community. This 40th-anniversary celebration is not just a reflection of the past but a look towards a future filled with promise and creativity. The meticulous preparations leading up to the event, including Sunday rehearsals, highlight the dedication and passion driving this production.
For additional details and enquiries, the school encourages reaching out via music@igssyd.nsw.edu.au. The 40th-anniversary production of Vive La Revolution promises to be a memorable celebration of IGS’s theatrical tradition.
The evolution of IGS’s locations reflects its growth and resilience. From the initial days at Aston Lodge to the vibrant campus at Kelly Street, the school has continually adapted and expanded. The acquisition of properties like 26-28 Mountain Street and 77-79 Bay Street, Ultimo, along with the dedicated outdoor education space at The Retreat in Kangaroo Valley, showcases the school’s commitment to providing comprehensive education.
As IGS honours its past, treasures the present, and shapes the future, the 40th-anniversary production stands as a beacon of its enduring legacy. The school community eagerly anticipates the magic of Vive La Revolution, a fitting tribute to four decades of theatrical excellence.
Residents of Surry Hills and Redfern will soon have a new go-to destination for food and drink as Coles and Vintage Cellars open their doors at the new Surry Hills Shopping Village, enhancing convenience and diversity in local shopping options.
Set to open on 27 June 2024, the Coles and Vintage Cellars stores will bring a variety of food and drink options to Surry Hills and create significant employment opportunities. 130 new jobs have been announced, including 18 positions specifically for First Nations team members, reflecting the community’s dynamic diversity.
Mitch Springer, Coles Surry Hills Store Manager, expressed his excitement about the new venture.
“It’s modern, open and accessible, adding to the lively atmosphere of the new shopping village. I’m confident customers will enjoy the space and our diverse range of offerings,” he said.
Photo Credit: Vintage Cellars
Diverse Offerings and Community Integration
The new Coles store will feature an extensive range of products including a bakery, fresh seafood, and a variety of Grab-and-Go options like sushi and ready-made meals. It will cater to the diverse tastes of the community with a specialized selection of Asian destination products. Moreover, the store will support the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence in their efforts to provide local Indigenous community members with employment opportunities.
Vintage Cellars Surry Hills, managed by Paul Adamson, will complement its counterpart by offering over 1,800 selections of wines, beers, and spirits. Adamson shared his enthusiasm.
“Our team is ready to offer expert guidance so customers can make the most of our extensive selection, including local products from Sydney’s Batch Brewing Company and Archie Rose Distilling Co.”
Community and Environmental Contributions
In addition to boosting local employment, Coles Surry Hills will collaborate with SecondBite New South Wales to donate unsold, edible food to help those facing food insecurity in the area. This initiative is part of Coles’ broader commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community support.
The new stores are located in the Surry Hills Shopping Village at the intersection of Cleveland and Baptist Street in Redfern, which used to be the Redfern Mall. Coles will operate from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, while Vintage Cellars will open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Beau Sydney, a two-part restaurant concept by the Nomad Group, has recently opened its doors in Flacks Lane, offering a fresh take on contemporary Australian cuisine.
The 200-square-meter venue, designed by Smart Design Studio, comprises two distinct yet complementary spaces: a bakery at the front and a casual bar and dining area at the rear. This concept allows patrons to enjoy freshly baked Manousha in the morning and wind down with a glass of wine in the evening.
Rebecca and Al Yazbek, the couple behind the Nomad Group, have strategically positioned Beau Sydney near their existing restaurant, Nomad. The new establishment is housed within an office building designed by SJB, featuring a striking glazed brick façade with a scalloped front window.
Arash Engineer, an associate at Smart Design Studio, worked alongside Christina Markham, a director of the practice, to bring the Yazbeks’ vision to life. The design team has created a cohesive aesthetic throughout the space while maintaining distinct identities for the bakery and bar areas.
Both sections of Beau Sydney share common design elements, including mesh ‘fringes’ suspended across the ceiling, caramel-coloured banquette seating, and light oak-washed tables and chairs. The polished concrete floors provide a unifying backdrop, with the bakery featuring a lighter palette complemented by stainless-steel kitchen fixtures and pale granite counters. In contrast, the bar area adopts a darker scheme with black granite and raw steel joinery.
The designers have skilfully incorporated the building’s original features, such as exposed brick walls and rough-finished surfaces, adding character and authenticity to the space. Engineer describes the two areas as “siblings” with similarities and differences.
Beau Sydney can accommodate up to 75 guests across its indoor spaces, with an additional 50 seats available in the laneway. This expansion of seating into the outdoor area is expected to increase foot traffic and contribute to the revitalisation of this part of Surry Hills.
While Smart Design Studio is renowned for its work on projects like the White Rabbit Gallery and luxurious Sydney homes, Beau Sydney showcases the firm’s versatility in creating contemporary spaces that cater to everyday pleasures.
Previously undevelopable narrow blocks of land, in areas like Surry Hills, are set to become prime sites for skinny apartment developments following a push to alleviate the city’s severe housing shortage.
These sites, located on street corners or nestled between detached homes, are now seen as viable options for new housing under a new plan.
Often neglected due to their challenging dimensions and strict development approvals (DAs) from many councils across New South Walkes, this innovative project demonstrates the potential of these small lots.
Surry Hills already hosts a notable apartment complex on a former substation site, developed by Hill Thalis Architecture, which has garnered architectural acclaim.
Photo Credit: Hill Thalis
Additionally, a new development on Elizabeth Street has successfully converted a narrow block into a 12-unit complex, further exemplifying what can be achieved with smart design.
As part of broader planning reforms to be finalised by mid-year, the Minns government advocates for councils to relax restrictions and approve more skinny apartment buildings. These developments must meet specific Planning NSW design guidelines, which include requirements like adequate sunlight in communal areas and appropriate building setbacks.
State Government Architect Abbie Galvin emphasised that narrow lots offer unique architectural creativity and efficient land use opportunities. She noted that architects have long embraced the challenge of designing for slim sites, achieving high-quality living environments that respect neighbourhood character and provide adequate sunlight and privacy. Ms Galvin stressed the importance of effectively using every parcel of land, especially in sought-after areas.
Planning and Public Spaces Minister Paul Scully criticized past restrictions that have hindered the development of terraces, townhouses, and low-rise apartments in many parts of Sydney. He advocates for a resurgence of diverse housing types, pointing out that slim sites as narrow as traditional terraces built over a century ago should not be overlooked. Mr Scully argues that it is nonsensical to persist with outdated planning restrictions when there are numerous successful examples of such developments throughout the city.
These forthcoming changes are poised to significantly impact Sydney’s urban landscape, particularly in neighbourhoods like Surry Hills, by increasing housing options and helping to address the ongoing affordability crisis.
An unlivable Surry Hills terrace has been given a new lease on life. Philip Corlette, a 67-year-old Sydney native, took on the challenge of renovating a property that many would have considered beyond saving.
The terrace, located at 518 Cleveland Street, was acquired by Corlette in 2019 for $1.53 million. At the time, it was in a state of severe disrepair, with missing ceilings, non-functional plumbing, and what Corlette described as “disgusting” conditions throughout.
Over the course of four years, Corlette single-handedly transformed the unlivable three-bedroom home into an architecturally redesigned living space. The renovation not only restored the main house but also added a studio above the garage, enhancing the property’s versatility and appeal.
The project showcases the potential for revitalisation within Surry Hills, a suburb known for its Victorian-era terraces and vibrant community. Corlette’s renovation preserves the heritage character of the area while introducing modern amenities and design elements.
One of the most significant additions to the property is the studio above the garage. Despite initial objections from some neighbours, the local council approved the design, recognising it as a positive contribution to the area. This addition not only increases the property’s living space but also offers potential rental income, a valuable feature in the competitive Surry Hills real estate market.
The renovation process faced numerous challenges, from structural rebuilds to the logistics of delivering materials through Surry Hills’ narrow streets. However, Corlette’s determination and DIY approach, bolstered by his experience in audiovisual installations, saw the project through to completion.
The transformed property now boasts modern bathrooms with heated floors, a kitchen that opens to an entertaining area, and state-of-the-art security features. These improvements reflect the evolving expectations of Surry Hills residents, who increasingly seek properties that combine historic charm with contemporary comforts.
Nick Gill from BresicWhitney Inner East, the agent handling the sale, emphasised the property’s appeal in the current Surry Hills market. “The integration of period details with modern design is exactly what buyers in this area are looking for,” Gill stated. “The addition of the north-facing studio is particularly attractive, offering flexibility for homeowners or investors.”
Australia’s first Greek Orthodox church, the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Surry Hills, is set to welcome worshippers once again after completing a series of restorations.
Archbishop Makarios of Australia will attend the Thyranixia, also known as the reopening ceremony, on Sunday, the 2nd of June 2024.
Constructed in 1898 and consecrated in April 1899, Holy Trinity was not only the first Greek Orthodox church in Australia but also in the Southern Hemisphere, earning its State Heritage Status from the New South Wales Government.
Originally, it served both the Syrian Orthodox and Greek Orthodox communities, under the guidance of Father Seraphim Phocas, who was proficient in Greek and Arabic.
Restoration Efforts
Over the decades, the church’s condition had deteriorated significantly, affected by water damage and severe structural issues caused by major tree root invasions. To address these challenges, the Board of the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW (GOCNSW) along with the Holy Trinity Restoration Committee initiated the 125th Anniversary Restoration Appeal in June 2023. They aimed to return the church to its original splendour.
The comprehensive restoration project, divided into four stages, began in May 2023. It is projected to extend over three years and exceed $1.1 million in total cost.
The ambitious plan encompasses various critical repairs and enhancements, including concrete repairs to the Bell Tower, replacement of side windows, and installation of a disabled access ramp off Bourke Street.
The Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, before restorations Photo Credit: Google Maps
Final Stages and Funding
The fourth and final phase of the restoration is scheduled for completion between 2024 and 2025 and is estimated to cost $304,537.00. Funding for this phase is expected to come from cash donations, in-kind contributions, and fundraising activities supported by the Greek community and government sources.
This phase will also see the installation of Honour and Donors Boards, and a marble plaque commemorating the restoration efforts and contributors.
The restoration of the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church preserves a significant piece of religious and cultural heritage and revitalises a historic landmark in Sydney’s Surry Hills for future generations.
What do the vibrant streets of Surry Hills and the intricate stitches of fashion’s past have in common? This suburb not only clothes the city but also tells the tale of New South Wales’ rich rag trade history, a narrative woven with the threads of innovation, migration, and transformation.
The tale begins in the 1860s, with the hum of Isaac Singer’s sewing machines setting the rhythm for prosperity.
As Sydney grew, so did the demand for fashionable attire, and Surry Hills, with its strategic location next to the bustling Central Station, quickly became the centre stage for clothing production.
The Ballarat House/ Singer Sewing Machines Photo Credit: City of Sydney archives
The neighbourhood thrived as tailors, seamstresses, and designers clustered in its streets, turning bolts of fabric into the latest fashions. Ready-made clothing became a staple of Australian wardrobes, reflecting both the growing economic prosperity and the evolving social landscape.
Surry Hills’ factories buzzed from dawn till dusk, filled with the sounds of stitching and steaming, as garments were pieced together and pressed, ready to be shipped to shops nationwide. This thriving hub was not only a place of work but also a lively community where fashion was both a means of living and a passion.
The Golden Era of Surry Hills
The early 20th century saw Surry Hills buzzing with activity as electric machines from 1914 onwards, and the establishment of David Jones’ 8-storey garment factory in 1915, with an extension in 1935 boosted local production. The streets of Surry Hills were lined with factories and workshops where men’s and women’s fashions took shape, filling wardrobes and fueling the local economy.
By the 1940s, Surry Hills significantly contributed to Sydney’s identity, with half of the city’s women employed in the manufacturing industry, specifically in sewing, stitching, and designing. These workers were the backbone of the local economy. Many were skilled artisans who had learned their craft through apprenticeships that were as demanding as they were rewarding.
View showing pedestrians and terrace houses were factory workers lived. Photo Credit: City of Sydney archives
The close-knit nature of the community and the constant demand for new, innovative designs created a dynamic environment where creativity flourished. Garments produced here set trends that reverberated through the alleys of Surry Hills to the world’s fashion capitals. Despite the hard work, there was a sense of pride and accomplishment in being at the forefront of fashion manufacturing.
Post-World War II brought a new chapter to Surry Hills with waves of migrants arriving in Australia.
These newcomers quickly established small factories and workshops, becoming entrepreneurs and employers, leveraging their skills and cultural knowledge to introduce European-inspired designs, which appealed to the Australian market’s growing desire for sophistication and variety.
The Decline of a Manufacturing Giant
The once-thriving factories saw a steep decline as cheaper imports flooded the market and local production dwindled, marking the end of an era for Surry Hills’ bustling rag trade.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The threads began to loosen when tariffs were slashed in 1973, aiming to streamline national industry but inadvertently exposing local manufacturers to fierce international competition.
The prevailing environment made it possible for overseas manufacturers to undercut prices, making it difficult for local factories to compete. Many businesses were forced to close, others downscaled, and the once-vibrant streets of Surry Hills began to quiet.
As manufacturing jobs disappeared, the social landscape of the area shifted. The community of skilled workers that had defined the suburb for decades began to disperse, sparking a significant economic and cultural shift, with long-term implications for the local economy and the identity of Surry Hills.
Surry Hills Today
Despite the decline in traditional manufacturing, the spirit of Surry Hills’ textile past lives on in its architecture and cultural fabric.
These buildings have been repurposed to preserve the physical remnants of Surry Hills’ manufacturing past whilst injecting a new vibrancy into the area. The new spaces attract a diverse new generation of creatives and entrepreneurs. These repurposed buildings bridge past and present, offering spaces that honour their industrial origins while fostering contemporary innovation.
Legacy Amidst Ashes
A devastating fire at the former R.C. Henderson Ladies Hat factory along 11-13 Randle Street — once a symbol of Surry Hills’ manufacturing might—serves as another poignant reminder of the area’s transformative journey.
Developers Hanave have submitted an amended development application (D/2023/1170) for the site to the City of Sydney. This application aims to reconstruct the former heritage building, preserving its original brick facade and architectural details.
The redevelopment project was initially approved in 2018 to transform the Randle Street site into a hotel, with a deferred commencement approval granted in 2020. However, no construction had started when the fire occurred in May 2023.
As plans to convert these heritage sites into modern hubs progress, Surry Hills continues to weave its historical threads into the fabric of Sydney’s future.
Editor’s Note: Some significant historical details appearing in this article were sourced from an article on The Conversation by Peter McNeil, Distinguished Professor of Design History, UTS, University of Technology Sydney. You can read the original article hereand click to listen to ABC Radio interviewing Prof McNeil.
The alc-eze supplement brand will unveil its latest 3-pack and 6-pack formats during an exclusive pop-up event in Surry Hills, promising attendees a night free from hangovers, complete with a money-back guarantee if they’re not satisfied.
From 25 to 28 April 2024, The Nocturne bar in Surry Hills will transform into the alc-eze Hangover-Free Bar.
Guests who purchase their first drink will receive a complimentary dose of the alc-eze hangover supplement. Should any patron still experience a hangover the next morning, alc-eze has committed to refunding their drink tab up to $50.
alc-eze’s product includes a potent mix of ingredients like nashi pear, known to reduce hangover symptoms by 80%, alongside damiana, kudzu, huang-qin, B vitamins, milk thistle, and molybdenum. These components work together to enhance the body’s ability to process alcohol more effectively, aiming to prevent the discomfort associated with typical hangover symptoms.
Highlights
Launch Event: Hangover-Free Bar pop-up in Surry Hills, 25-28 April
New Products: Portable 3-pack and 6-pack alc-eze options
Money-Back Guarantee: Up to $50 if patrons experience a hangover
Retail Expansion: Broader distribution in liquor and convenience stores
Key Ingredients: Nashi pear, damiana, kudzu, and more for effective hangover prevention
Photo Credit: alc-eze
The introduction of the 3-pack and 6-pack formats of alc-eze responds to consumer demand for more portable options following the success of their 30 and 60-tablet bottles. These new packs are priced at $9.99 and $14.99 respectively and are now available at top Australian pharmacy chains.
alc-eze is planning to expand its distribution to more liquor stores, bars and convenience stores across Australia, to make the brand more visible and accessible to consumers, allowing them to enjoy celebrations without the fear of hangovers.
